On March 21, 2013 the committee resumed consideration of Bill C-428.  The Native Women’s Association of Canada and the Congress of Aboriginal People presented their statements and answered questions from the committee members.  The Native Women’s Association argued that the consultation process for the Bill was not sufficient, and noted that the government should consider using the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples to frame the bill and the consultation process. The Native Women’s Association was not in favor of the Bill. The Congress of Aboriginal People spoke about the how the Bill will affect Aboriginal People living off reserve and non-status Aboriginal people. The Congress of Aboriginal People was in favor of the Bill.  Despite some issues with the Bill, the Congress believes that the process must begin somewhere.

The Minutes can be found here.

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On March 7, 2013, the committee heard from the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development: Michael Wernick, Deputy Minister Colleen Swords, and Associated Deputy Minister Susan MacGowan. In this meeting the committee commenced consideration of the Main Estimates 2013-2014, Votes 1,5,10, L15, L20, 25, 30, and 35 under Indian Affairs and Northern Development, and Votes 25 and 30 under Health (referred to Committee in Feburary).  The committee also considered the Supplementary Estimates 1c 2012-2013, Votes 1c and 10c under Indian Affairs and Northern Development (referred to committee February 25, 2013).  Vote 1c and 10c carried, and the Chair will report the Supplementary Estimates (C) 2012-2013, votes 1c and 10c under Indian Affairs and Northern Development to the House.

During the question and answer period the Members of Parliament focused their questions on the issues of: First Nations education and the creation of First Nations Education Act, the safe water and waste water plans, and land management plans. The meeting adjourned early due to votes in the House of Commons.  The Minutes of the meeting can be found here.

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